I was once told by someone that I act like I don’t have a care in the world. And, based on this blog, you probably think I’m coasting through life with a smile and no problems. HA! If only our lives were truly as others perceive them. In reality I am an everyday person with everyday problems. In fact, on a given day the circumstances of my life may seem worse than yours. If I sat down with you today and told you all the things going on behind the smile you might just give me a hug and even say a little prayer for me (say one right now while you’re thinking about it, thanks). If I looked at my current situation through the eyes of reality I’d probably break down and quit. Fortunately, I actually walk what I talk on this blog.

Every now and again I like to remind my readers that keeping a positive mindset is far from easy and that having a positive mindset will not cancel out all life’s troubles. Positive thinking simply allows you to shift your perspective on the things you encounter throughout the day so you can continue to push forward. Think of it like a bank account. You deposit money into your bank account so when you need to make a withdrawal you have enough to cover the costs. In the same way you fill your mind with positive thoughts so when you need a withdrawal (i.e. when something unpleasant happens) you have enough to cover the charge. And, just like you work to earn the money you deposit, sometimes you have to work to create positive thoughts. You may need to read something inspiring (like this blog!), spend some quality time with your family, or engage in your favorite pastime; something that makes you feel all warm and fuzzy and takes your mind off the bad stuff. We all have something that works for us. If you don’t, try out some new things and find something.

Just remember, even the folks you think have great lives have something lacking they desire to obtain. As a Facebook post I once read says “Every person you meet is fighting a battle you know nothing about”. So when I encourage you to think well I am also encouraging myself. We’re all in this thing called Life together and if we come together we can all get through it with a smile.